A group of young development advocates under the SDGs Advocate Programme Cohort 7 has carried out a large-scale sanitation and public sensitisation exercise at the Gombe Main Market (Kasuwan Gwari), targeting improved hygiene and waste management in one of the state’s busiest commercial hubs.
The exercise, held on Monday, brought together 20 SDG Advocates alongside members of the NYSC SDG Community Development Service (CDS) Group, marking one of the largest volunteer turnouts recorded in recent cohorts.
Speaking during the exercise, the Gombe State Team Lead, Jael Akawu, said the initiative stemmed from growing concerns about poor waste disposal and its potential health risks.
“We observed the need for better sanitation and public awareness on proper waste management,” Akawu explained. “Our aim was to contribute to a cleaner Gombe and inspire traders to adopt sustainable hygiene habits.”
Akawu noted that although there were early concerns about mobilising volunteers especially after learning that the previous cohort had fewer than five participants consistent follow-up and engagement yielded an impressive turnout.
“Leading adults can be challenging, but seeing the unity, passion, and impact today made every effort worth it,” she added. “This project proved that consistent leadership and teamwork can inspire meaningful community change.”
Upon arrival, the team was received by the Market Chairman and other market leaders, who commended the initiative and facilitated movement through different sections of the market.
PERISCOPE NIGERIA reports that the sanitation activities included clearing waste, sweeping major pathways, distributing sacks for organized waste collection, and conducting trader-to-trader sensitization on proper disposal practices. More than 100 traders were directly engaged, while many others received the message through on-site awareness efforts.
Market leaders described the initiative as timely and impactful. “This kind of effort is highly appreciated,” one of the market executives said. “We welcome the advocates to come again and are ready to collaborate on future sanitation programmes.”
The project supports multiple global goals, including SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), and SDG 13 (Climate Action).
The SDG advocates say they plan to sustain engagement with market authorities and encourage regular sanitation activities to maintain cleanliness within the market.
